Webcam guitar, bass and ukulele Lessons are becoming very poplular and has allowed me to reach students around the world. Webcam lessons online allow scheduling freedom, no travel time or traffic hassles to and from lessons, students are more relaxed and ready to learn by being in the comfort of their home or office. I prepare the written part of your lesson ahead of time so the complete lesson is spent playing through the material and learning. I feel the amount of hands on time the student gets is one of main reasons online guitar lessons, online bass lessons and online ukulele lessons are working for so many students.
I am not a computer expert in any way but have learned alot of technical things that will help you get your Software, Webcam and Computer ready to go for a test lesson with me.
Software:
All of the software programs I use to teach with are free and available for PC or Mac. They require download & set up on your computer and will cause no damage or virus. Here is a list of proven programs that allow us to see and hear each other. Once you have downloaded the program to your computer you will set up a account with a ID and be able to test your webcam video and audio settings. You can learn alot about the programs features just by testing and exploring the options. It is best to be comfortable with basic functions before setting up a test lesson. I am familar with all of the programs so when you find one you like I can offer some additional help.
Skype: www.skype.com
Oovoo: www.oovoo.com
Yahoo Messenger: www.messenger.yahoo.com
Webcam:
I am using the Logitech 9000 for my webcam. It is awesome! The microphone is built into the camera and I just set it on top of my monitor. It has the option to run HD settings if your computer can support it. Students can see and hear me perfectly. I have students who are using the Logitech C310 model and it is fine. It has the HD option and is only $49.99 The most important thing to ask about when purchasing a webcam is the resolution settings. If the camera has a very limited field of view I will not be able to see the complete guitar or bass. 320×240 is the minimum. I have my camera set to 1280×720 HD.
Computer:
Any computer purchased within the last 4 years should be good. I have students who are using both Mac & PC desktop or laptop computers for lessons. One thing I have found on laptops is to make sure you are running off the power cable. If the battery runs low the video and audio quality is not good. Macs have amazing cameras in them! I have found the built in cameras on most PC’s don’t allow a wide enough view. This makes it a struggle for me to see and monitor what both hands of the student are doing. Your internet connection is also very important. If you have a wireless net work please disconnect all other computers and dedicate the connection to our lesson. Video lessons will not work if you are on dial-up or satellite connection. Cable or DSL is best. Make sure your Modem is current and you are getting the speed you are paying for! I have had many students call their Internet Service Provider (ISP) and run a “Speed Test” to find that they are not getting the Upload and Download speeds they are paying for. Please run a speed test with your ISP and let them know you want to be ready for “Video Conferencing”.
